AirVenture Attendance Holds

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • EAA AirVenture attendance remained consistent with the previous year, defying expectations of a drop due to high fuel prices and a struggling economy.
  • EAA President Tom Poberezny attributed the strong attendance to the show's quality, calling it a much-needed boost for the aviation industry.
  • Next year's event will feature major attractions, including WhiteKnightTwo/SpaceShipTwo, a Concorde flight crew reunion, and a celebration of mission aviation.
  • The EAA plans to invest $3.2 million in ground improvements, primarily focusing on enhancing camping amenities.
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Attendance at this year’s EAA AirVenture was “on par with last year,” EAA President Tom Poberezny said Sunday. He said that at the start of the show the expectation was that high fuel prices and the generally poor economy would sap attendance but the numbers have held and he credits the quality of the show itself. ” I think it’s been the shot in the arm that aviation has needed,” he said. He said three major events, including the exhibition of WhiteKnightTwo and possibly SpaceShipTwo, have already been set for next year.

There will also be a reunion of Concorde flight crews and a celebration of mission aviation. Work will begin on $3.2 million in improvements to the grounds, focusing mainly on improving the camping amenities.

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